Batman is one of the most popular superheroes in the world. The Dark Knight is a master of many disciplines, and trained in multiple skills. This enables him to stand among the World’s Finest heroes, despite not having any superpowers. Batman #147 explores the source of his indomitable will and superior strength of character.
Written by Chip Zdarsky, with art by Jorge Jiménez, Batman #147 continues the ongoing battle between Bruce Wayne and his Zur-En-Arrh persona. Created to step in if Bruce Wayne was mind-controlled, Zur-En-Arrh instead decided that he would be a better Dark Knight. This led him to take over a robot body, turn on his creator, and impose his will on Gotham City.
Batman #147 sees Zur-En-Arrh redoubling his efforts to keep Gotham City safe. Beyond creating his own private prison, he also begins building an army of robots, powered by the Zur-En-Arrhs of other Earths. He also replaces Damian Wayne with a robot because “I can’t trust or control a ‘Robin’ unless I make him myself.”
Batman’s Love of Family is His Greatest Strength
While this occurs, Bruce Wayne goes into hiding off the grid. He is joined by Tim Drake, who points out that Bruce has a history of shutting himself off when times get tough. Bruce agrees, but denies the idea that he does not trust his allies. Rather, he fears getting them killed and losing the new family he made after the death of his parents.
This highlights the true source of Bruce Wayne’s strength – his heart. Batman was born of death, and at first Bruce Wayne found it hard to trust or love anyone. However, his life as Batman brought him into contact with people who shared his values and his belief in a better tomorrow. It was his love of his parents that made Bruce Wayne into a vigilante, but it was his love of humanity that made him into a hero.
Batman #147 is now available on-line and at comic shops everywhere.
